by Rose Crumb

(PART 1)

The first issue of the HOSPICE INTEREST newsletter in February 1978 featured this article: ―The first meeting of the Hospice Interest group was held Tuesday, February 7, 1978 at 7:00 p.m. at the Port Angeles Senior Citizen Center. Those present were: Nan McGoff, Claudia Fox, Jean Hordyk, Rose Crumb, Marge Koch, Laurel Oppelt and Frank Feeley, Jr.

So it began—this wonderful organization that did not have a name or money….just 7 enthusiastic volunteers and a vision of care for the terminally ill and their loved ones. This concept of care was new in the entire country and especially on the West Coast. The first hospice started in New Haven, Connecticut in 1974 and from there spread in all directions, reaching Washington 3 years later.

by Cherie Copsey

Many people feel they are ready to volunteer and to help others who are facing their own death or death of a loved one. However, as a patient/family volunteer, one’s motivation has to be absolutely clear. When one has recently suffered a loss, it’s hard to be sure when it’s time to take on something as intense as this kind of work.

In experiencing a death there is often unfinished business that needs to be dealt with before doing hospice work. Often times the survivor isn’t aware for quite a while of the issues that need closure. In grief you experience shock, denial, despair and many other intense emotions. They can take you on a roller coaster ride that is very hard to control. Many times these feelings surprise and overwhelm you in what we call grief-bursts or sneaker waves when you least expect them. Read more

Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County

540 East 8th St.
Port Angeles, WA 98362
(360) 452-1511

Compassionate care for the terminally ill, their caregivers and their family.